Knights prepare to face Roosters with Kalyn Ponga back in NRL grand final
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 3, 2026, 8:43 PM
Last updated Oct 3, 2026
The Newcastle Knights are set to clash with the Sydney Roosters in the NRL grand final on Sunday. This match marks the return of Kalyn Ponga, who has not played against the Roosters since Round 6, 2024. The Knights have historically struggled against the Roosters, losing both meetings this season by narrow margins. Ponga's involvement is expected to bolster the Knights after a turnaround season, as they aim for their first championship in over 40 years. Coach Justin Holbrook has praised Ponga's leadership and influence on the team's performance.
- •Ponga has not faced the Roosters since 2024.
- •Knights lost both regular season matches against Roosters.
- •Expectations are high for Ponga's influence in the final.
- •Newcastle's last championship victory was over 40 years ago.
- •Knights team has significantly improved this season under Holbrook.
- 8:43 PMZero Tackle NRL — Knights’ joker card they are yet to play against the Roosters
"The Knights have an ace up their sleeve ahead of Sunday's grand final.
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